Dilworth Man, 97, Survives Jump From Stolen Truck

Created: 12/28/2013 12:55 PM KSTP.com
By: Cassie Hart

KSTP file photo.

A 97-year-old Dilworth man feels lucky to be alive after jumping from a stolen truck.

Johnie Beckerleg was waiting in his son's pickup outside Wal-Mart in Dilworth last weekend when a man jerked the door open. Beckerleg, who uses a walker, was unable to stop the 32-year-old Moorhead man from speeding off with him still inside.

Beckerleg tells The Forum the man appeared heavily intoxicated. As he swerved through the parking lot, Beckerleg opened his door and jumped. He says he has "no idea" how he pulled it off.

Police arrested the younger man later at a service station. His blood alcohol content was three times the legal limit, and he faces several felony charges.

Beckerleg dislocated his shoulder and scraped his hand but is now recovering at home.

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